NEEDLESS to say, Brandon Ganuelas-Rosser has provided a big lift for TNT in the frontcourt.
Taking on a larger role for the Tropang 5G in the latter stages of the PBA Philippine Cup, Ganuelas-Rosser averaged 11.0 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.83 blocks, and 26 minutes and 22 seconds in the semifinals against Rain or Shine.
BGR has given TNT a different dimension not seen in the last two conferences where they won championships, as he was recovering from an ACL injury he sustained last season.
“Hindi kami napapagod kasi nandoon na siya,” said Poy Erram, one of the centers of the Grand Slam-seeking side. “Siyempre, extra body.”
That extra body will be needed, especially as TNT gets to face eight-time MVP June Mar Fajardo and the rest of San Miguel in the 49th Season all-Filipino finals.
The Tropang 5G hope that Ganuelas-Rosser’s versatility would help them in overcoming the Beermen, who have consistently dominated the conference over the years.
“Iba kasi ‘yung game niya. Talagang aggressive ‘yung intensity ng laro niya. Siya kasi, mabilis siya, athletic talaga. So ang laki nang naitutulong niya sa amin,” said Erram.
BGR’s strong showings enabled him to stay on the court in long stretches, especially in the fourth quarter of their series against the Elasto Painters in lieu of Erram, whose numbers slightly dipped from 11.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks during the eliminations to 6.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in the semifinals.
A more mature Poy
But Erram doesn’t mind, keeping himself ready at all times when called by TNT head coach Chot Reyes. He also contributes in other ways like being a leader while on the bench.
“Kunwari, may mga times kasi minsan na hindi maganda nilalaro niya, I have to be ready every time kasi my mga times na kailangan pa rin ako ni coach. Kahit hindi niya ako gamitin, kailangan ready pa rin ako. Kahit gamitin niya si Brandon nang mahaba or siya mag-end ng game, kailangan pa rin ako,” said Erram.
“Be a leader… kailangan pa rin nila marinig ‘yung boses ko sa loob galing sa bench. Hindi lang naman paglalaro ang kaya kong ibigay. Kung ano ‘yung nakikita ko sa loob ng court while sitting down, pwede kong sabihin sa kanila kung ano pa ang dapat gawin.
“Accepting a lesser role. Pero one thing is for sure, one goal is to win.”
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